$65 would be a fair estimate. The part is $20.82. It's not a difficult install if you've done one before, but it's the safety system of the unit, so not to be taken lightly.

skyssk, thanks for the reply. Is there a way to know if the mower is on its last legs? What is the life expectancy of this model? Thanks again.

The engine will outlast the mower, most will. What usually cans a mower is the drive system needing "too much" work or the deck shell falling apart. If your deck shell doesn't have big flakes of rust on the inside, it's fine. Once the edges of the deck are crumbly with rust, and the inside is orange and black, it's time to start shopping.

The drive on your mower isn't a particularly durable one compared to the old Toro/LB drives, but it's far better than the current MTD drive systems. It'll be completely repairable, but with labor, a drive system rebuild is usually 80% the purchase price of a new mower. At that time, most people opt to get a new mower with a warranty.

The inside of the deck is rusted, the edges are just starting. I will probably not fix it now and see what the sping brings. Any other suggestions? Thanks again.